Against All Odds: NBA Teams That Defied the Draft Lottery

Against All Odds: The Luckiest NBA Teams to Win the No. 1 Draft Pick The 2025 NBA Draft Lottery has once again highlighted the unpredictable nature of the event. Several teams have defied the odds over the years, landing the coveted first overall pick against expectations. This year's lottery is no exception, but a look back at past drafts reveals some incredible upsets. One of the most surprising wins came in 2014. The Cleveland Cavaliers, with only a 1.7% chance, secured the top pick and selected Andrew Wiggins. The excitement was palpable. 'It was unbelievable,' says a fan interviewed at the event. 'We couldn't believe our luck!' Similarly, in 2008, the Chicago Bulls, also with a mere 1.7% chance, won the lottery and drafted Derrick Rose. This pick proved pivotal for the Bulls, marking a significant moment in the team's history. The 2011 draft saw the Cleveland Cavaliers once again defy the odds. With a 2.8% chance, they secured the first pick and drafted Kyrie Irving. This success, against the odds, demonstrates the unpredictable nature of the NBA draft lottery. These examples highlight the inherent unpredictability of the NBA Draft Lottery and the thrill of victory for teams with low odds. The lottery remains a captivating event, generating excitement and anticipation among fans and teams alike.